Graphic Design Programs in Salt Lake City, Utah

Becoming a Graphic Designer in Salt Lake City, Utah

Are you considering a career as a graphic designer in Salt Lake City, Utah? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a successful graphic designer, including education paths, local schools, and employment opportunities. A graphic designer creates visual content to communicate messages, using typography, imagery, and color. Whether you’re interested in digital design, web design, or traditional print, there are various educational paths to explore.

About Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is known for its stunning natural surroundings and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Range, the city offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor lifestyles. For more information about Salt Lake City, visit the official city website.

Graphic Design Programs in Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City offers several options for aspiring graphic designers. Here are three notable programs:

  1. University of Utah – College of Fine Arts
    • Located in the East Bench neighborhood, the University of Utah offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. The program focuses on design principles, typography, and digital media. For more details, visit the University of Utah Graphic Design page.
  2. Salt Lake Community College
    • Situated in the Taylorsville neighborhood, Salt Lake Community College provides an Associate of Applied Science in Visual Art & Design with a focus on Graphic Design. The program includes courses in digital imaging, typography, and web design. Learn more on the SLCC Graphic Design program page.
  3. Westminster College
    • Located in the Sugar House neighborhood, Westminster College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Graphic Design. This program emphasizes creative problem-solving and effective communication through design. Visit the Westminster College Graphic Design page.

Graphic Design Employment Opportunities in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is home to several design agencies and companies with in-house design teams:

  1. Struck
    • Based in the Central City neighborhood, Struck is a creative agency known for its innovative branding and design work. Explore career opportunities at Struck’s careers page.
  2. R&R Partners
    • Located in the Downtown area, R&R Partners is a full-service advertising agency offering various design and marketing services. Check out their employment opportunities.
  3. Contravent
    • Situated in the Warehouse District, Contravent is a creative agency specializing in brand strategy and digital design. Visit their careers page for job openings.

Prerequisites for Graphic Design Programs

To enroll in a graphic design program in Salt Lake City, you typically need:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent, with courses in art, design, and computer applications.
  • A portfolio showcasing your best work, which may be required for admission.
  • Some programs may require entrance exams or interviews.

Certification Options for Graphic Designers

While no licensing is required for graphic designers in Utah, several certifications can enhance your career:

  • Adobe Certified Professional: Available through programs like those at Davis Technical College, this certification demonstrates proficiency in Adobe software.
  • Certified Usability Analyst: Offered by Human Factors International, this credential requires completing courses and passing an exam.
  • Certified User Experience Designation: Provided by the Nielsen Norman Group, this designation involves training and exams.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a graphic designer in Salt Lake City is an exciting journey. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, you’re well-positioned to succeed. Take the first step by reaching out to a school today and exploring the possibilities that await you in the world of graphic design.

For more information on the job outlook for graphic designers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.